Portrait of Isaac Herzog
Politician · person
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Isaac Herzog on Mahmoud Abbas

Dialogue partner (moderate) Flip Head to head

TL;DR

Isaac Herzog has maintained direct communication with Mahmoud Abbas, focusing on de-escalation and mutual peace efforts when possible.

Key Points

  • He spoke with Mahmoud Abbas about peace during a pre-Ramadan phone call in 2022.

  • The President called for the Palestinian leader to condemn settler violence following riots in June 2023.

  • Isaac Herzog stated that Palestinians deserve to have peace during an interview in 2023.

Summary

Isaac Herzog, in his capacity as President, has maintained a channel of direct communication with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, often emphasizing the importance of ongoing contact between the two leaders. Evidence of this includes phone calls made to condemn specific acts of violence, such as settler rampages, and to discuss matters ahead of religious holidays like Ramadan, signaling a pragmatic approach to managing the relationship. The President has publicly called for the Palestinian leader to condemn specific instances of violence, viewing such condemnations as crucial steps toward broader de-escalation and stability.

This engagement reflects an underlying commitment by Herzog to foster dialogue, even amid significant political tensions and disagreements over fundamental issues like the two-state solution. While the President has also made statements regarding the need for Palestinians to abandon terrorism and has expressed a view that Palestinians deserve peace, the continued conversation with Abbas represents an effort to maintain a working relationship aimed at preventing further conflict escalation. The nature of their interactions suggests a recognition of Abbas's political role while maintaining firm national security stances.

Key Quotes

“I totally reject what he is saying, but I do not forget the Israeli interest, so it is better for Israel to deal with the PA in Gaza and not Hamas and continue our security cooperation in”

“unequivocal denouncement of the recent assault on innocent Palestinians by extremists.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Isaac Herzog's position centers on maintaining a direct line of communication with Mahmoud Abbas to facilitate de-escalation and discuss stability. He views ongoing contact as necessary for managing the volatile relationship between the two sides. However, he expects the Palestinian leader to condemn acts of violence.

The core stance of maintaining dialogue appears consistent with his role as President, showing a pragmatic approach to the PA leadership. He has engaged in direct calls with Abbas concerning specific security events and holidays. There is no strong evidence of a fundamental shift in his engagement strategy toward the Palestinian President.

Recently, Isaac Herzog called Mahmoud Abbas to specifically ask him to condemn settler violence that had erupted in the West Bank. The President has also spoken with him regarding matters like the start of Ramadan, indicating continued high-level communication.